I'm a registered "bite me!"

Every time the conversation turns to politics I hear people say they are a "registered Democrat" or a "registered Republican".  Pardon my ignorance, but I'm not sure what that means.  I've traveled considerably but only voted in Texas*.  Here you can vote in one primary or the other, but not both, and that in no way binds you in the general election in the fall.  Does the act of voting in a primary "register" you?


They make it sound like you have to publicly declare by signing an affidavit (registering) at a party office your intention to support that party.  Why would anyone want to lock themselves in like that?  What does "registering" get you?  Discounts on candidate's T-shirts or bumper stickers?  Big whoop!   How do you "register" to be an Independent? 


S


*Actually, I'm quite a VIP here in Texas.  I say that because I have been repeatedly notified (sometimes discreetly addressed to "occupant" so as to preserve my privacy) that as a revered, almost legendary Texas businessman I have been selected to serve on Senator PickPocket's advisory board.  To accept his most generous offer all I have to do is send him a pot of money and he'll give me a lapel pin that will signify to the world what a Big Shot I am as well as a monthly newsletter that I can't un-subscribe to.  I'm SO flattered!  :)